Passed in response to the September 11 attacks, the Patriot Act grants law enforcement bodies in the United States greater authority in countering terrorism domestically and abroad. It amends previous laws, such as the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, enhancing federal authority to track communications for intelligence and enforcement purposes, monitor borders, and combat money laundering operations.

2015 Annual Report

Learn more about CFR’s mission and its work over the past year in the 2015 Annual Report. The Annual Report spotlights new initiatives, high-profile events, and authoritative scholarship from CFR experts, and includes a message from CFR President Richard N. Haass.Read and download »